ISHPEMING — The Ishpeming VFW Post 4573 sponsored a patriotic essay contest for high school and junior high age students.

Participants had to submit an essay based on a theme. Eleven students took part from Westwood and Ishpeming school districts as well as a home-school student. The High School, Voice of Democracy winners are, from Westwood, 1st place, Matt Ostola, 2nd Place, Lucy Ostola and 3rd place Zachary W. Martin from Ishpeming.

The Patriot Pen winner are, 1st place, Joseph M. Ostola, Aspen Ridge, 2nd place, Lillian I. Karnack, Ishpeming Elementary. The winning participants will be honored during the 14th district banquet on April 5th at the Negaunee VFW Post.

Organizers would like to thank the all the teachers and volunteers that facilitated the essay contest.